FIRST RUN IN 3 YEARS

Waaah. Aaaargh. Oh God. Just keep going. And various other random sounds were expressed during my first run in 3 years. I have never actually completed a 5k until this run. 45 minutes… So let’s face it, I need to shave 5 minutes off each mile. And work on just slowing my pace instead of walking. However, I feel surprisingly positive. I’m more unfit now than the last time I tried running but weirdly, I think an awareness of that made my run more enjoyable.

There are a lot of people right now running 5ks and donating to charity and then nominating 5 others to do the same. I am eternally grateful that my friends know me well enough to not nominate me. BUT. I am an unbelievably competitive person (just ask my work colleagues what I was like during our version of Bake Off…) And I decided that I wanted to challenge myself to do a 5k, and so I did. It’s not stopping there though. The Couch 2 5k app now takes pride of place in my ‘fitness’ apps folder (yes, I organise my app folders). And I’m determined to start working my way through the app come Monday. Today’s run proved something to myself though and that’s that I can run for more than 90 seconds and I think that mentality will really help throughout the couch to 5k. I’m using today as somewhat of a ‘test’ – a ‘look what you can do when you put your mind to it’.

I found the first 10/15 minutes really easy, I was listening to my podcast, smiling away to myself thinking ‘YES!’ And then I looked and saw I wasn’t even a third of the way through… Sorry what?! I thought I was nearly done. At that point I was ready to give up and come home in a sulk. However, I think my stubbornness (and competitiveness) pulled me through. And I did manage to complete the 5k. Panting and puffing and very red faced. But feeling good… Maybe these scientists who talk about endorphin release and runners’ highs have a point, who knew?!

Now I’m writing this filling up on a protein and fibre filled breakfast armed with the motivation to research all the best foods to eat pre and post run, all the best stretches to do etc etc… So, one of two things is going to happen (we know I’m very black and white), I’m going to get really into it and love it and be running marathons in no time… OR you will never hear about my running journey ever again. Who knows. What I do know is that I really enjoyed running today and I feel great for it. But in true Tally Rye, Train Happy style, if I decide I don’t want to go for a run… I won’t be.

I hope you all enjoyed my post-run high ramble. If anyone is a seasoned runner and has tips for a beginner… I’d love to hear them!

Until next time,Shona x

P.S: Evidently I have jinxed myself. Not even 3 hours after writing this… I was nominated for the 5k challenge, thanks Lindsey! So I guess I will have to do at least one more run, ha!

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3 thoughts on “FIRST RUN IN 3 YEARS”

Bravo. Don’t get obsessed about the pre and post run fuel – a 5k probably uses a bit over 300 calories so eating well and sensibly will cover it. Stay hydrated and just get out there and run, and enjoy it.